San Augustin Spring facts for kids
San Augustin Spring, also called San Augustine Springs, is a natural spring located in the Organ Mountains in Doña Ana County, New Mexico. This spring is found on the eastern side of San Augustin Pass. It sits at an elevation of about 5,627 feet (1,715 meters) and is located about 14.7 miles northeast of Las Cruces, New Mexico.
A Look Back: San Augustin Spring's History
What Happened at San Augustin Spring During the Civil War?
During the early years of the American Civil War, San Augustin Spring became an important place for a military event. In July 1861, a group of Union Army soldiers faced a difficult situation here.
On July 25, 1861, Union Major Isaac Lynde and his troops were defeated in the First Battle of Mesilla. The next day, Confederate forces led by Lt. Col. John R. Baylor threatened Major Lynde's base at Fort Fillmore. Because of this, Major Lynde decided to leave the fort. He planned to retreat northeast to Fort Stanton by going through San Augustin Pass in the Organ Mountains.
The Retreat and Surrender
As the Union soldiers tried to escape the following day, many of them struggled. The July heat was intense, and they did not have enough water. Hundreds of soldiers fell behind and were captured by the Confederates. Major Lynde's group became much smaller, with only about 200 to 300 men left, by the time the Confederates caught up to them.
Major Lynde asked to discuss terms for his troops. Lt. Col. Baylor demanded that the Union soldiers surrender completely, without any conditions. Major Lynde agreed to this. The surrender officially took place at San Augustin Spring on July 27, 1861. This event was a significant moment in the early part of the Civil War in New Mexico.
